The Medical Establishment Can No Longer Hide the Truth
In January 2026, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, representing more than 11,000 surgeons, issued a clear and sobering statement. After reviewing the available evidence, they concluded that there is not enough reliable data to support the claimed benefits of these interventions for children. Their recommendation was direct. Gender-related surgeries should be delayed until at least age 19. This matters. These are the professionals who perform these procedures. These are the experts who have every reason to continue the status quo. Yet even they are now acknowledging that the evidence is not there.
The Evidence Was Never What Families Were Told
For years, parents were assured that these interventions were grounded in solid science. Now we know that was not true. Major reviews have found that the research behind these practices is weak. Long-term outcomes remain unclear. There is no reliable way to predict which children will continue to struggle and which will not. Many children improve with time, counseling, and support. At the same time, the risks are permanent and life-altering. These include infertility, loss of normal physical development, and long-term health complications. Parents were not given the full picture.
Children Are Being Failed by a System That Moved Too Fast
Children facing identity struggles often carry deep emotional and psychological burdens. These challenges require careful attention, patience, and truth. Instead, too many were rushed toward irreversible decisions. Emerging data shows that underlying mental health struggles do not disappear through medical intervention. In many cases, those struggles continue or even intensify. Families are now seeing the consequences of decisions made too quickly and without full understanding.
The Momentum Is Shifting Toward Protecting Children
Across the world, health systems are stepping back. Countries that once led in this area are now placing strong limits on these interventions for minors. The focus is returning to counseling, evaluation, and protecting children from harm. Now, even leading medical professionals in the United States are acknowledging the same concerns. This is not political. This is a recognition that children deserve better.
Missouri Must Lead with Clarity and Courage
Missouri has the opportunity to take a clear stand for children and families. Amendment 3 establishes firm protections by prohibiting puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and gender transition procedures for minors. It ensures that children are not placed on a path of irreversible medical harm during their most vulnerable years. It reflects what parents already know. Children need protection. They need guidance. They need time.
Protecting the Next Generation Starts Now
The voices are growing louder. The evidence is becoming clearer. The narrative is changing. Parents are no longer willing to accept uncertainty when it comes to their children’s future. Her Health Her Future is committed to standing with families, protecting children, and ensuring Missouri leads with truth. Now is the time to act. Now is the time to protect our children.
Link to research: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/health-policy/positions/2026-gendersurgery-children-adolescents.pdf
